What is EMDR?

  • EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a powerful psychotherapy approach that has been extensively researched and is recognized by the American Psychological Association as an approved treatment for trauma and PTSD. EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (through eye movements and tactile stimulation, activating opposite sides of the brain)

  • So what is trauma? Trauma is any experience that exceeds our nervous systems ability to cope. When a person experiences a trauma, that memory is not fully integrated in the brain. Because trauma triggers the nervous system to enter “fight or flight” mode, subsequent exposure to triggers signal our brain to react, often causing psychological distress.

  • EMDR therapy activates the clients natural adaptive information processing (AIP) system, capitalizing on the client’s ability to heal and process information naturally. The goal is to remove the disturbing elements that remained in the mind after the incident and produce new adaptive beliefs and effective behaviours. 

  • The treatment is based on the neuroscientific observations that the brain processes traumatic images differently than normal memories. The rapid eye movements along with hearing positive statements helps to process traumatic memories rapidly and effectively. After successful processing, positive emotions are integrated into memory instead of fear or anger.

Keep reading for more Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently asked questions

Who can Benefit from emdr?

EMDR was initially researched on war veterans and first responders. New research indicates that a wide range of people can benefit from EMDR including:

  • Phobias

  • Personality Disorders

  • Anxiety

  • Grief

  • Motor vehicle accident

  • Assault

  • Childhood abuse/trauma

  • Chronic pain

  • Stage fright/Fear of public speaking

  • Sexual assault

  • Emotional abuse

  • Panic attacks

  • Narcissistic parents

  • Addiction

  • Witnessing violence

  • Low self-esteem

  • Depression

  • Insomnia

Why try EMDR?

Have you found that other therapy approaches were not the right fit, or progress was too slow? In my experience, clients are frustrated after years of trying to navigate mental health services and suffering from debilitating psychological and physical symptoms. Many clients are seeking an alternative to traditional talk therapy and prefer a more somatic based approach.

Does EMDR work?

Yes, EMDR has been researched by >30 randomized controlled trials. The outcomes of these studies include:

  • 100% of single trauma victims no longer met the criteria for PTSD after a mean of six sessions (50 min)

  • 79% of multiple trauma victims no longer met the criteria for PTSD after a mean of six sessions (50 min).

  • Another randomized controlled trial compared EMDR with a trial of Fluoxetine (an SSRI antidepressant). The results found that 91% of those who attended EMDR no longer met the criteria for PTSD. In the Fluoxetine group, 71% no longer met the criteria for PTSD.

  • EMDR offers lasting longterm benefits for clients. Post research follow-up shows that >80% of clients continue to remain in remission from PTSD at the 6 and 12 month mark.

*The figures listed above are from published studies, the number of sessions and duration are highly individual.

Can emdr be done online?

Yes, currently Amethyst Therapy Inc. will accept EMDR clients virtually. Recent research supports the use and efficacy of virtual EMDR.

Many clients have expressed that processing traumatic memories is more effective in their own space. Feeling comfortable at home, with familiar space and animals helps clients move through the process more efficiently.

Who can provide emdr?

EMDR therapy requires extensive training. My training was completed by an EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) approved provider and meets the highest standards. To complete this training you must have a Masters degree and 400 hours of training. It is of utmost importance that I provide my clients with the highest quality evidence based approach to therapy.

Drumming, historical beginnings of EMDR

Although the science supporting EMDR is relatively new, many cultures around the world have been utilizing bilateral stimulation for centuries through drumming and cultural ceremonies.